What Is Renal Failure? 3 Considerations a Patient Should Make
5 Minutes Read
Renal failure, also known as kidney failure, is a serious medical condition
in which the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids
from the blood. This loss of kidney function can result in a range of health
complications, which makes it a critical condition that requires
comprehensive management and careful consideration of available treatment
options.
This condition can generally be categorised as acute or chronic. Acute renal
failure, or acute kidney injury (AKI), happens suddenly—often due to an
event such as severe dehydration, a blockage in the urinary tract, or a
traumatic injury to the kidneys. With timely intervention, acute renal
failure can often be reversed. On the other hand, chronic renal failure,
also known as chronic kidney disease (CKD), develops gradually over time,
often due to long-term conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.
One important treatment consideration for patients with renal failure is whether to
undergo Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) surgery. HPB liver surgery may be
recommended when patients develop severe complications such as liver cirrhosis or
pancreatic disease, which can exacerbate kidney problems. In addition to medical
treatments, patients with renal failure must consider other factors as they proceed
with their care, including coping with the emotional and psychological impact of the
disease and planning for long-term management.
With these considerations in mind, this article provides a comprehensive guide for
patients with renal failure, outlining the key aspects of the condition, the
available treatment pathways, and the important decisions they need to make along
the way.
1. Suitable Treatment Pathways
Medication and Lifestyle Changes
Upon being diagnosed with renal failure, patients are typically introduced to a
treatment plan that includes both medication and lifestyle modifications. Before
beginning any treatment, a kidney function test is
crucial to assess the current state of the kidneys and tailor the treatment
accordingly. Medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms and complications,
such as high blood pressure, anaemia, and bone disease.
In addition, dietary adjustments—such as reducing salt, potassium, and phosphorus
intake—are crucial in managing the condition. These can also help preserve the patient’s existing
kidney functions and delay the progression of CKD. It’s also commonly
recommended to reduce protein intake to decrease the workload on the kidneys.
Dialysis
As chronic renal failure advances, the kidneys may lose most or all of their
functional capacity, necessitating the use of dialysis to perform the
filtering role of the kidneys. Dialysis is a life-sustaining treatment that
removes waste products, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood. This
treatment also has two primary types.
Haemodialysis involves circulating the patient’s blood through a machine
with a special filter called a dialyser, which cleans the blood before
returning it to the body. On the other hand, peritoneal dialysis uses the
lining of the patient's abdomen as a natural filter. A dialysis solution is
introduced into the abdomen through a catheter, where it absorbs waste
products and excess fluids from the blood vessels in the peritoneal cavity.
The solution is then drained and replaced with fresh fluid.
In Singapore, both types of dialysis are
accessible in various locations and through public and private
healthcare providers. Patients should discuss the available options with
their nephrologists to determine the most suitable form of dialysis for
their situation.
Kidney Transplantation
For many patients with end-stage renal failure, a kidney transplant offers the most effective and long-term solution. A kidney transplant involves surgically placing a healthy kidney from a donor into the patient’s body to replace the function of the failed kidneys. While the procedure carries risks, kidney transplantation can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life and life expectancy.
Alternative Interventions
While renal failure itself is irreversible, patients need to understand that
other medical interventions can offer hope, particularly in complex cases
involving multiple organ systems. For instance, patients who develop severe
complications affecting other organs, like the liver or pancreas, might be
considered for additional transplantations.
Liver transplantation may be necessary for patients with both renal failure
and advanced liver disease, while pancreas transplantation may be an option
for those with type 1 diabetes and kidney failure. Regardless, patients
should discuss these options first with their doctors to weigh in on the
most appropriate course of action.
2. Emotional and Psychological Considerations for Coping With the Diagnosis
Patients who receive a diagnosis of renal failure often describe it as an
overwhelming experience. Upon hearing it, they may immediately feel fear,
anxiety, and uncertainty about the future. It’s also normal to get a mix of
these emotions before undergoing treatment.
What’s important is to acknowledge these emotions and seek support from
family and friends, as they can lend an ear, help with daily activities, and
accompany patients to medical appointments. It’s also a good idea to join a
support group for kidney patients so that each member can experience a sense
of community and solidarity, helping each one feel less isolated and anxious
about their condition.
3. Long-Term Management
Renal failure is a chronic condition that requires lifelong management, and
patients must take an active role in their health care to maintain the best
possible quality of life. Regular medical check-ups are essential to monitor
kidney function, manage symptoms, and detect any complications early.
Adherence to prescribed treatments, including medications and dialysis, is
also crucial in slowing the progression of the disease and preventing
further health issues.
Patients should also stay informed about their condition by keeping up with
the latest research and treatment options. They may learn about critical
medical advancements and new therapies that could improve their prospects
even further.
There’s no denying how fearful or distressed someone may feel after receiving a renal failure diagnosis, as this is indeed a life-altering condition. All the same, with a proactive management approach, patients can still get through the aftermath and continue to live meaningful, fulfilling lives in the company of their loved ones.